Article by Risha Inaganti
When medical laboratory science major and genetic counseling minor Abigail McLaughlin began to work with Lori’s Hands, she had no idea her path would cross with Aubrey McGovern, a Spanish studies major with minors in medical diagnostics and Spanish for healthcare.
The two were randomly paired up to make visits together through Lori’s Hands. What went from being purely volunteering at the same organization turned into a lifelong friendship as the two embarked on what Abigail considers to be one of her most rewarding experiences yet.
According to Abigail, who just completed her first year at the University of Delaware, Aubrey, who just graduated from the same university, was constantly providing her with support and helpful advice about all things life and career.
“It’s funny looking back on how Aubrey and I didn’t know each other a year ago,” Abigail said. “She’s been such an amazing friend and, in many ways, has been like a mentor to me.”
Abigail explained how meeting someone further ahead on the same career path has encouraged her more and more with every visit they went on together.
During the course of the 2022-2023 school year, Abigail and Aubrey met with community member Marge Pastore once a week. Throughout the entire year, Marge always had the same excited look when they walked through the door, according to Aubrey.
Together, the three talked about all things past, present and future – sharing their life stories and discussing goals for the future.
“Her face lights up when we see her,” Aubrey said. “And ours does too, it’s always exciting when we know we’re about to spend an hour talking to our friend Marge.”
Between them all laughing about their funny life experiences, Marge always reminds Abigail and Aubrey that they are on the right life path, commenting on how she can “see it in their eyes” that they are going in the right direction.
“Getting to build such a strong connection like this is really a reminder of why I’m doing this and assures me I’m about to be doing the right thing with my life,” Aubrey said.
Although the trio’s weekly visits have come to an end as Aubrey has graduated, there is no doubt that their impact has been strong. As Aubrey moves onto her next adventure, Abigail is starting her second year at the University of Delaware; both will carry with them fond memories and inspiration from this year’s visits with Marge.
“Through the constant support from Aubrey and love from Marge, it’s clear to see how much of an impact I’m already making, even if it is through smaller things,” Abigail said. “Lori’s Hands is definitely reassuring me of my career goals.”
